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Straits Times
16-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Crowds, heat pose challenges as Osaka Expo reaches midway point
It is estimated that 18 million tickets need to be sold in order for the Expo to break even. As of July 12, over 15 million tickets have been sold. OSAKA - July 13 marked three months since the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo opened, and ticket sales have remained strong with more than 10 million visitors. With the possibility of making a profit in sight, the event, which is now halfway through its run, is now facing the challenges of crowds and heat. 'We are, in general, making good progress,' said Mr Hiroyuki Ishige, secretary general of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, at a press conference on July 14. 'The summer holiday season is the key to success, and we'd like to increase the number of visitors.' Before the Expo opened April 13, advanced tickets were not selling well, and since the details of what the pavilions would display was not disclosed, many pointed out that they were not sure what the main attractions were. However, public interest has since grown as the actual experiences of visitors started spreading on social media. Since then, about 2 million admission tickets have been sold per month, bringing the total to 15.98 million as of July 12. The association plans to use the revenue from admission ticket sales to cover 83 per cent, or 96.9 billion yen (S$840 million), of the 116 billion yen it costs to run the Expo. It is estimated that 18 million tickets need to be sold in order for the Expo to break even, and the actual sales are close to 90 per cent of that figure. At this pace, the Expo could turn a profit as early as within August. By July 12, more than 10 million people visited the Expo, bringing the cumulative total to 10.11 million. The daily average for the number of visitors was 110,000. But earlier in July, when it was starting to really get hot, there were less than 100,000 visitors on some days. The association is aiming for an average of 130,000 visitors per day in the second half of the Expo run to stabilise revenues. The key to achieving this goal will be to reduce congestion. The association introduced an online reservation system to visit pavilions at certain times and dates and has touted the event as a 'line-free Expo'. However, in reality, many of the pavilions for other countries do not use the reservation system, so visitors to the more popular of these pavilions, such as the Italy Pavilion and the USA Pavilion, sometimes have to wait several hours. In addition, as the Expo does not have a lot of shaded areas, visitors have to wait in the sun. As of July 20, 20 people were reported to have suffered heatstroke or suspected to have suffered heatstroke in July, when the daily high temperatures for Osaka City, where the Expo is located, have been about 35 deg C. The association has installed fans with a misting spray and other devices at various locations, and parasols are available for rent in front of the entrance gate. To ease daytime crowds, the association plans to encourage visitors to come later in the evening, when it is slightly cooler, through such means as holding fireworks shows — previously only held once or twice a month — every day from July 12 through the end of August and setting up a beer garden. At previous expos, the number of visitors tended to increase in the second half of their run, and there is a concern that the crowds will become more intense. 'We'd like to encourage visitors to come before the late stage of the (Expo's duration) to try and disperse the crowds,' said an association official. It is also necessary to increase the number of visitors who do not live near the Expo. According to the association, 67.5 per cent of domestic visitors have come from the Kinki region, 15.5 per cent from the Kanto region, 2.4 per cent from Kyushu and 0.8 per cent from the Tohoku region. Visitors from overseas account for 9 per cent of the total. As people tend to travel more during the summer, the association sees it as an opportunity to increase the number of visitors from distant regions and intends to strengthen its communication through social media and other means. THE JAPAN NEWS/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
Yomiuri Shimbun
15-07-2025
- Business
- Yomiuri Shimbun
2025 Expo Osaka: Crowds, Heat Pose Challenges as Event Reaches Midway Point; Expo Might Turn a Profit, but Summer Holiday Season is Key
OSAKA — Sunday marked three months since the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo opened, and ticket sales have remained strong with more than 10 million visitors. With the possibility of making a profit in sight, the event, which is now halfway through its run, is now facing the challenges of crowds and heat. 'We are, in general, making good progress,' said Hiroyuki Ishige, secretary general of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, at a press conference on Monday. 'The summer holiday season is the key to success, and we'd like to increase the number of visitors.' Before the Expo opened April 13, advanced tickets were not selling well, and since the details of what the pavilions would display was not disclosed, many pointed out that they were not sure what the main attractions were. However, public interest has since grown as the actual experiences of visitors started spreading on social media. Since then, about 2 million admission tickets have been sold per month, bringing the total to 15.98 million as of Friday. The association plans to use the revenue from admission ticket sales to cover 83%, or ¥96.9 billion, of the ¥116 billion it costs to run the Expo. It is estimated that 18 million tickets need to be sold in order for the Expo to break even, and the actual sales are close to 90% of that figure. At this pace, the Expo could turn a profit as early as within August. By Saturday, more than 10 million people visited the Expo, bringing the cumulative total to 10.11 million. The daily average for the number of visitors was 110,000. But earlier this month, when it was starting to really get hot, there were less than 100,000 visitors on some days. The association is aiming for an average of 130,000 visitors per day in the second half of the Expo run to stabilize revenues. The key to achieving this goal will be to reduce congestion. The association introduced an online reservation system to visit pavilions at certain times and dates and has touted the event as a 'line-free Expo.' However, in reality, many of the pavilions for other countries do not use the reservation system, so visitors to the more popular of these pavilions, such as the Italy Pavilion and the USA Pavilion, sometimes have to wait several hours. In addition, as the Expo does not have a lot of shaded areas, visitors have to wait in the sun. As of Sunday, 20 people were reported to have suffered heatstroke or suspected to have suffered heatstroke this month, when the daily high temperatures for Osaka City, where the Expo is located, have been about 35 C. The association has installed fans with a misting spray and other devices at various locations, and parasols are available for rent in front of the entrance gate. To ease daytime crowds, the association plans to encourage visitors to come later in the evening, when it is slightly cooler, through such means as holding fireworks shows — previously only held once or twice a month — every day from Saturday through the end of August and setting up a beer garden. At previous expos, the number of visitors tended to increase in the second half of their run, and there is a concern that the crowds will become more intense. 'We'd like to encourage visitors to come before the late stage of the [Expo's duration] to try and disperse the crowds,' said an association official. It is also necessary to increase the number of visitors who do not live near the Expo. According to the association, 67.5% of domestic visitors have come from the Kinki region, 15.5% from the Kanto region, 2.4% from Kyushu and 0.8% from the Tohoku region. Visitors from overseas account for 9% of the total. As people tend to travel more during the summer, the association sees it as an opportunity to increase the number of visitors from distant regions and intends to strengthen its communication through social media and other means.
Time Out
11-07-2025
- Time Out
The ‘beer garden' at Expo 2025 is extending its evening opening hours
In a bid to encourage Expo 2025 visitors to avoid the summer heat and visit the mega-event at night, Osaka's governor Hirofumi Yoshimura announced on July 8 that the opening hours of the food and drink retailers at the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion will extend their evening hours by 30 minutes from late July, staying open until 9.30pm. The popular outdoor terrace area between the pavilion and the Grand Ring is lit up with lanterns and shaded with large parasols, effectively making it a beer garden and a go-to spot for enjoying a cool pint at the Expo. Once the new opening hours take effect, the alfresco area will be accessible until 9.45pm. This announcement follows previous calls by the governor in May, urging the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition to extend restaurant hours until just before 10pm. However, that proposal faced resistance due to concerns about securing transportation for Expo staff after closing time.
Borneo Post
15-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak set to shine at Expo 2025 Osaka
The Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka spans 2,654.52 square metres across three floors, reflecting the nation's diverse culture and dynamic economy. — Bernama photo OSAKA, Japan (June 15): It was a true sight to behold – a stunning lattice of interwoven bamboo three stories high – making the Malaysia Pavilion stand out upon entering the East Gate of the Expo 2025 in Osaka. The bamboo artwork champions sustainability, a reflection of Malaysia's participation guided by the theme 'Weaving a Future in Harmony', thereby sending the message of Malaysia as a diverse nation: rooted in tradition, yet constantly evolving. I was fortunate enough to attend the grand launch of the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, on 31 May 2025. The Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka spans 2,654.52 square metres across three floors, reflecting the nation's diverse culture and dynamic economy. The pavilion serves as a hub for international collaboration and dialogue, as well as pocket talks, product launches, memorandum of understanding signings and business matching sessions. Experiencing Expo 2025 firsthand gave me a true sense of the breadth and scale of creation: 188 pavilions spread across 155 hectares on the man-made island of Yumeshima, Konohana-ku. Out of this figure, 161 pavilions represent participating countries, along with 15 pavilions hosted by organisations and the Japanese government, each offering unique perspectives on the Expo's central theme, 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives.' This impressive assembly underscores the Expo's role as a truly international stage for collaboration and a glimpse into the future. 'Looking back at history, I recall that Malaysia had participated at the Expo 1970 Osaka. It is amazing that after 55 years, we are back in this city to participate at such an Expo once again,' Fadillah said during the launch. 'The Malaysia Pavilion stands as a proud testament to our national resolve to advance Malaysia's international standing through innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. 'We believe that by working together, sharing our knowledge, and respecting our diverse backgrounds, we can collectively address the pressing challenges of our time and pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous future for all. 'This Expo offers a strategic and complementary platform not only to showcase Malaysia's capabilities, but also to highlight the collective efforts of the Asean region in shaping a future that is inclusive, equitable, and environmentally responsible.' As of the latest official report from the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, a cumulative total of 5,803,520 visitors were welcomed since its opening on April 13, 2025. This figure is current as of the end of May 31, 2025. The event has seen a steady increase in attendance so far in its six-month endeavour. Daily visitor numbers have also been on the rise, with a new daily record of 162,000 general visitors reported for Saturday, May 31. Malaysia has gained from this growing platform, as the Malaysia Pavilion has successfully secured more than RM8 billion in potential investments and 20 memoranda of understanding (MOUs) to date at the Expo. This is fast approaching the government's target of RM13 billion in potential trade and investments. According to Fadillah, this achievement represents 61.54 per cent of Malaysia's target of RM13 billion within just two months of operations, signalling optimism for Malaysia. A total of 101 companies are involved in these investment deals of RM8 billion, with 398 business meetings held so far. Fadillah and distinguished guests during the official launch of the Malaysia Pavillion on May 31. — Bernama photo Spotlight for Sarawak in a world setting It is at this very event that Sarawak is set to show its economical prowess and capability through Sarawak Week, coming up in the first week of August. It will be an opportunity to showcase the state's uniqueness by way of cultural shows and pocket talks on trade, investment, tourism, agriculture, oil and gas, renewable energy, and talent development. With the theme 'Sustainability for Tomorrow', Sarawak Week will run from August 3-9, 2025. But this is not the first that Sarawak makes its mark at the expo. On April 16 — just three days after the Expo opened its doors to the public — a strategic US$20 million agreement was formalised between Bintulu-based Pertama Ferroallows Sdn Bhd and the Export-Import Bank of Malaysia Berhad (EXIM Bank). This is set to pave the way for the development of Sarawak's first production facilities for electrolytic manganese metal and high purity manganese sulphate, both key materials in the renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors. Meanwhile, after the Malaysia Pavilion launch, Sarawak Energy Bhd (Sarawak Energy) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to collaborate on renewable energy development, enhance cross-border energy infrastructure, and exchange technical knowledge. The MOU was witnessed by Fadillah, and Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, who is representing Sarawak Premier. The partnership reinforced ongoing efforts to support Southeast Asia's energy transition while advancing regional interconnectivity and sustainability. Awang Tengah, who is also Sarawak Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment and Second Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development, said this agreement between Sarawak Energy and the JBIC would also help to enhance ties between Sarawak and Japan. 'It is very timely. In this respect, I would like to invite more Japanese companies to invest and participate in Sarawak's economic development agenda,' he said in a press conference after the signing ceremony. Also present were Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Liew Chin Tong and Ambassador of Malaysia to Japan Datuk Shahril Effendi Abd Ghany. In the statement, Sarawak Energy said the MoU establishes a framework for strategic collaboration with JBIC to advance RE initiatives and enhance regional interconnectivity. Aligned with the Asean Power Grid initiative and the Asia Zero Emission Community, the partnership would contribute meaningfully to long-term sustainability and strengthen regional cooperation. 'The MoU builds on continued engagements following the bilateral summit between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Putrajaya in January 2025. 'The summit addressed key areas including trade, investment, energy cooperation, education and regional security, culminating in the elevations of Malaysia–Japan relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,' Sarawak Energy added. Sarawak Energy group chief executve officer, Datuk Sharbini Suhaili (front, left) exchanges the MOU with JBIC managing executive director, Sekine Hiroki (front, right) witnessed by (back row, from left) Awang Tengah, Fadillah and Liew on May 31. Underscoring Sarawak's role for the future The Sarawak Deputy Premier hilighlighted Sarawak's efforts in integrating Borneo into the Asean Power Grid and affirming its commitment to regional energy cooperation. Notably, Sarawak has been supplying electricity to West Kalimantan, Indonesia, since 2016 and is currently in the process of supplying power to Brunei Darussalam. During a press conference, the Deputy Premier said Sarawak is also actively enhancing its grid infrastructure to strengthen power distribution across the state and beyond. 'Besides renewable energy (RE), Sarawak is transforming its industrial landscape through strategic diversification into hydrogen, carbon capture, utilisation and storage, oil and gas (O&G), petrochemical products, and aerospace. 'These developments complement the sustainable O&G sector and expansion into high-value petrochemical downstream activities, leveraging advanced technologies and sustainable practices,' Awang Tengah said. 'Sarawak is shaping a dynamic economic hub in Southeast Asia, balancing economic growth and environmental responsibility while achieving long-term prosperity.' He said Sarawak is going to be the hub for RE, anchored in hydropower as it has the potential to generate at least 30,000 megawatts (MW) or 30 gigawatts (GW), if fully developed. Currently, Sarawak is targeting an increase in its generating capacity to 10,000 MW or 10 GW by 2030, and to 15,000 MW or 15 GW by 2035. 'Apart from hydropower potential, there is also huge potential for us to develop this RE through solar power and bio-energy from biomass and waste,' he explained. Two major companies from Japan are also said to be planning to invest US$1.5 billion (US$1=RM4.25) in the high-tech and chemical industries in the region, as part of Awang Tengah's work visit to Osaka. One of the projects involves the construction of a semiconductor-grade polycrystalline silicon production facility by Japan's Tokuyama Corporation in collaboration with South Korea's OCI Company Ltd, with the investment estimated at around US$435 million. Another planned investment is said to involve a consortium of Japanese companies in the chemical sector, with the investment estimated to reach US$1 billion. Awang Tengah says Sarawak is also actively enhancing its grid infrastructure to strengthen power distribution across the state and beyond. — Bernama photo Fostering ties between Malaysia and Japan Malaysia's presence at this expo in Japan serves to strengthen ties between the two countries. Statistically, Japan remains one of Malaysia's top economic partners, with more than 2,800 manufacturing projects implemented to date and bilateral trade valued at RM156.75 billion in 2023. Malaysia aims to secure a minimum of RM13 billion in potential trade and investment leads from its Expo 2025 presence. According to Fadillah, the camaraderie between Malaysia and Japan is one that has been carefully nurtured and strengthened over many decades, evolving into a truly comprehensive and robust partnership. 'Our relationship extends beyond mere economic ties, encompassing a deep appreciation for each other's cultures, a shared commitment to regional stability, and a history of mutual support. 'From early collaborations in industrial development to contemporary partnerships in technology and education, the connections between our people and our nations are profound. 'By being here, we are not only showcasing Malaysia's capabilities and ambitions but also engaging directly with the people of Japan and the wider international community. 'As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century together, this lasting partnership offers a solid foundation for continued collaboration and shared success. 'I am heartened to learn that our collective efforts are now beginning to take shape in meaningful and tangible ways, ranging from the exploration of investment opportunities and the forging of global partnerships that support local advancement and innovation, to attracting visitors through the celebration of Malaysia's rich cultural heritage.' Meanwhile, the presence of numerous Malaysian students and professionals in Japan, and the reciprocal interest of Japanese in Malaysia's unique heritage, natural beauty and business opportunities, are proofs to this strong affinity. This was felt during a meet-and-greet between Fadillah and members of the Malaysian diaspora in Japan, recognising their contribution as cultural ambassadors and economic connectors abroad. The gathering provided an opportunity to engage directly with Malaysian professionals and students based in Japan, reinforcing the government's commitment to citizen diplomacy. 'Malaysians abroad are the country's little ambassadors to contribute to Malaysia's positive image,' Fadillah said in his speech. 'All of you play an important role in building bilateral relations, especially in the fields of economy, technology and education. 'Malaysia is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the aspiration of a low-carbon country. Thus, all parties, including Malaysians abroad, have a role to play in contributing to the sustainable agenda. 'Japan, a global powerhouse in technology and innovation, presents invaluable opportunities for Malaysian students to excel. However, true achievement extends beyond academic excellence, it is equally rooted in the cultivation of strong values, ethics, and a deep sense of patriotism. 'I urge students to bring their expertise home and contribute to the nation's progress, as the knowledge and skills they have gained are vital in shaping Malaysia's future. This was felt during a meet-and-greet between Fadillah and members of the Malaysian diaspora in Japan, recognising their contribution as cultural ambassadors and economic connectors abroad. — Bernama photo The gathering provided an opportunity to engage directly with Malaysian professionals and students based in Japan, reinforcing the government's commitment to citizen diplomacy. Malaysia could play role in upcoming Expo 2030 Riyadh In a move to plan ahead, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has extended an invitation to Malaysia to assist in organising Expo 2030 in Riyadh. This offer is a sign of confidence, a testament to Malaysia's capabilities and shows a mark of strength of the Malaysia-Saudi Arabian relationship. According to Fadillah, this was highlighted by Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ambassador to Japan, Dr Ghazi Faisal Binzagr, during Fadillah's visit to the Saudi Arabia Pavilion. 'They want to invite Malaysia to be involved together for Expo 2030, which they will host in Riyadh. This is an opportunity for us (Malaysia). It means we are recognised. 'Later, I will bring this back to discuss with the Cabinet, to see how we can explore what are the areas that we can work with them on this,' he told reporters during a press conference after attending a dinner with the Malaysian Diaspora in Osaka. 'They want to see how we can be involved from the beginning, from the planning stage – and also what else that we can contribute from our country. 'After this, our Malaysian Ambassador to Japan will discuss this further with the Saudi Arabia Ambassador. 'From there, we will start the initial discussions, and they will make a report for us to bring back. The detailing part is, how we can identify the opportunities to be involved together.' This showcases a continued collaboration between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, following a joint cultural showcase by both pavillions at Expo 2025 Osaka, reflecting not only artistic tradition, but a shared commitment to cross-cultural understanding on the global stage. Hosted at the Saudi Arabia Pavilion, Malaysia's dancers were invited to perform as part of a special event that reflected both nations' soft diplomacy efforts to strengthen collaboration through the universal language of art. The showcase also signalled deepening ties between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, especially in promoting intercultural exchange through heritage and youth expression. At the heart of the showcase was the Tarian Anggalang Magunatip, a dynamic bamboo dance rooted in the traditions of the Murut community of Sabah. In a standout moment of the programme, the Magunatip performance evolved into a joint segment with dancers from the Saudi Pavilion, weaving in elements of the Al-'Azawi, a spirited and athletic youth dance from the Jazan region. The fusion of the two styles created a powerful visual narrative: distinct traditions, harmonised by shared values of rhythm, identity, and ancestral memory. The invitation to organise Expo 2030 in Riyadh showcases a continued collaboration between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, following a joint cultural showcase by both pavillions at Expo 2025 Osaka. Fadillah (third left) with Ghazi during his visit to the Saudi Arabia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka on May 31. Awang Tengah DPM Fadillah Yusof Expo 2025 Osaka investment
05-06-2025
- Science
Swarms of Pesky Midges Plague Osaka Expo Site
News from Japan Society Jun 6, 2025 08:30 (JST) Osaka, June 6 (Jiji Press)--Midges have crashed the party at the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka, western Japan. Chironomid midges, which closely resemble mosquitoes, have been found swarming in huge numbers across the site. While they are not directly harmful to humans, they are annoying visitors. The Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition has almost identified where the insects are coming from, but the reason for their explosive increase remains unknown. The Osaka Expo organizer has sought the help of an insecticide manufacturer and others to find a quick solution. According to the association, the midges tend to be active in the evening and later at the venue, often appearing on the roof of the event's iconic Grand Ring and in and around waterside areas. [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.] Jiji Press
